Modeling traffic output for design of dynamic multi-cycle control in congested conditions

Accurate estimates of intermediate signal traffic output are necessary for designing meaningful multi-cycle intelligent or dynamic signal control in congested conditions. Models are presented that capture traffic output of intersections in congested interrupted flow conditions with explicit consideration of interactions, over space and time, between traffic streams at successive signals. Three unique operational characteristics along with their interactions were found to characterize distinct traffic flow regimes and determine system output. Models to predict the formation and intensity of these operational characteristics and the corresponding flow regimes were derived. Results demonstrate that an accurate representation of these regimes provides critical information for subsequent control steps.